Computing difference-differential dimension polynomials by relative Gröbner bases in difference-differential modules

In this paper we present a new algorithmic approach for computing the Hilbert function of a finitely generated difference-differential module equipped with the natural double filtration. The approach is based on a method of special Gröbner bases with respect to “generalized term orders” on Nm × Zn and on difference-differential modules. We define a special type of reduction for two generalized term orders in a free left module over a ring of difference-differential operators. Then the concept of relative Gröbner bases w.r.t. two generalized term orders is defined. An algorithm for constructing these relative Gröbner bases is presented and verified. Using relative Gröbner bases, we are able to compute difference-differential dimension polynomials in two variables. c © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.